Barbara Ann “Bobbi” Humphrey (born 1950) is an American jazz flautist and singer. First discovered by Dizzy Gillespie, Humphrey emerged as a prominent figure in the jazz-funk and soul-jazz genres during the 1970s.

Bobbi Humphrey

Her stint with Blue Note started in the final band of Lee Morgan, and she also played alongside George Duke, George Benson and Stevie Wonder. Inspired by the success of Donald Byrd’s combination of soul, jazz and R&B, Humphrey collaborated with the Mizell Brothers on her best known solo work, “Blacks and Blues” in 1973. With her soulful sound that is equally complex and accessible, Bobbi Humphrey became one of the leading female flautists in the jazz-fusion movement.

Photo: Bob Cato